Session #32: Serving the Community in Observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
January 6, 2026
12 – 1 p.m. Virtual Zoom Presentation Free – online Zoom
The Detroit Bar Pro Bono/Access to Justice Committee invites you to join us for a webinar featuring several ways you can serve your community in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Presenters:
The ACLU of Michigan and the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center are seeking volunteer attorneys to help challenge the unlawful detention of immigrants who are being denied access to bond hearings in violation of longstanding constitutional and legal protections. Without bond hearings, individuals may be held for months or years away from their families while their immigration cases proceed. Volunteers are needed to file habeas petitions in the Eastern and Western District of Michigan and handle the subsequent bond hearings in Detroit Immigration Court to secure their clients’ release. We offer a listserv for new case alerts, open office hours with a habeas expert, mentoring with an immigration attorney, and a resource folder with templates and recordings of prior trainings.
TeamAbad and Julisa Abad host name change clinics for low income transgender community members, covering Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties. TeamAbad seeks new attorney volunteers to accept case referrals. Cases generally take 5-10 hours from initial meeting to hearing over a 4-6 month period and although the newly updated name change laws allow relief to be granted without a hearing, attorneys should be prepared to handle the nonadversarial hearing. Additionally, Although most clients qualify for fee waivers and should be able to avoid publication fees upon request, volunteer firms & attorneys should expect to cover any filing fees if a fee waiver or waiver of publication is not granted. Training a 90 minute live or on demand training is offered by Dykema.
Driver license restoration services are incredibly valuable to residents who need to restore driving privileges to get to work, school, medical care, and take care of loved ones. The clinics bring resources from the public and private sectors together, with onsite Secretary of State staff and services, corporate and attorney volunteers, court administrators, and philanthropy. Similarly, expungement services help residents remove eligible convictions from their record, which can enable them to find better employment and housing opportunities. Volunteers are needed at intake and at the hearings.
Moderator:
Attend and receive a Certificate of Completion. Approved for State Bar of Michigan Pro Bono Honor Roll hours. Training hours can be put toward the Detroit Bar Pro Bono award with recognition at the annual Archer Award Gala in November. For full details, please visit https://www.detroitlawyer.org/probonoaward/
For questions, contact Sheena Law-Killinger at slawkillinger@detroitlawyer.org.
Brought to you by:
DETROIT BAR PRO BONO/ACCESS TO JUSTICE COMMITTEE
The information provided in this programming does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available are for general informational purposes only.
The Work Life Balance Book Club 2026 Kick-Off Meeting
January 15, 2026Mojave Cantina, Clawson, MI 48017 5-6:30 p.m.
Join the Work Life Balance Section of the Detroit Bar and the Oakland Chapter of the Women’s Bar Association as we kick off the new year with a focus on mental health. Enjoy food, drinks, and collegial conversation while we explore insights from Anxiety at Work by Adrian Gostick and Chester Elton.
This joint session will feature an open, energizing discussion on building a healthier legal workplace—one where high expectations and genuine humanity can thrive together.
In today’s legal world, anxiety is no stranger to anyone — associates, partners, or staff.
Anxiety at Work offers eight practical strategies to help teams and leaders:
Detroit Bar Section Co-Chairs:
Oakland Chapter of the Women’s Bar Association
Registration:
$20 for Detroit Bar and Women’s Bar Association members $35 non-members
Registration includes margaritas, sangria, soda and appetizers. Please email slawkillinger@detroitlawyer.org with any questions you might have regarding registration.
To become a Detroit Bar Association Member, please visit https://www.detroitlawyer.org/join/
SPONSORS:
The information provided in this programming does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available are for general informational purposes only
Join the Detroit Bar Association in this immersive 1.5-day workshop covering everything a new attorney practicing in Wayne County needs to know to hit the ground running. Presentations are led by seasoned Detroit Bar members practicing regularly within the Criminal, Family, Juvenile and Civil Divisions.
Thursday, January 22, 2026 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Via Zoom
The Third Judicial Circuit Court of Michigan and 36th District Court will give procedurals overview of Wayne County Courts and their respective divisions, followed by practical guidance from a group of experienced attorneys practicing regularly within the Criminal, Family, Juvenile and Civil Divisions.
Thursday, January 29, 8 a.m.- 4 p.m.
This will be an in-person session including a tour of CAYMC and Phases of Litigation covering everything from discovery and depositions to juggling multiple hearings and introduction to trial practice. Experienced Detroit attorneys will lead you through the specifics of motion filing, discovery and depositions, successful trial practice, appeals, alternative dispute resolution and settlement conferences. The day will also include presentations focused on starting your career with wellness in mind, professionalism, and a practical guide to interacting with the courts, judges and staff.
You must be a Detroit Bar Member to register. Registration is $65 for both sessions. To join, visithttps://www.detroitlawyer.org/join/.
Presenters Include:
Reach out to Sheena Law-Killinger to register or with questions at slawkillinger@detroitlawyer.org.
Business Litigation Section Winter Happy Hour
January 26, 2026
Two James Spirits 2435 Michigan Ave Detroit, MI 48216 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Join the Detroit Bar Association’s Business Litigation Section for a relaxed and engaging happy hour at Two James Spirits in Corktown. This informal gathering offers a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues and mingle with the Business Court judges in a casual, friendly setting. Enjoy complimentary appetizers while you network, and take advantage of the available cash bar.
Registration: $35 members, $65 non-members
Please email slawkillinger@detroitlawyer.org with any questions you might have regarding registration.
Tuesday, February 3, 2026 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Elephant & Co. Detroit 456 Charlotte Street, Detroit
Have you successfully used social media as evidence, or are you looking to better understand how it can be a powerful tool in litigation? Today’s social media platforms contain a wealth of information that can significantly benefit your cases and clients at trial.
Join ASG Investigations and members of the Detroit Bar Association leadership for an insightful and engaging panel discussion on the use of social media as evidence. Our distinguished panelists will discuss current trends in evidence collection and preservation, practical applications, and real-world experiences from their own practices.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical guidance, expand your network, and engage with peers. We look forward to seeing you there!
Panelists:
Event Timeline:
Members $25 Nonmembers $45
To update your membership status or to join, visit https://www.detroitlawyer.org/join or contact Sheena Law-Killinger at slawkillinger@detroitlawyer.org.
Registration includes appetizers and a cash bar. Please email slawkillinger@detroitlawyer.org with any questions you might have regarding registration.
The IOC season will kick off on Tuesday, February 10, 2026. The meetings are held twice monthly on Tuesdays at Miller Canfield and begin with a soft start social period and dinner at 5:30 p.m., followed by the program from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The 2026 Inn of Court dates are:
Membership and participation in the Detroit Bar IOC is an exclusive benefit available only to Detroit Bar members. Non-members must join the Detroit Bar when they join the IOC.
The IOC dues for the 2026 program year are $75 for Masters, $50 for Barristers and Associates, and $25 for Law Clerks. This fee covers the costs for program administration and food and beverages during the season.
TO REGISTER: Use the link on this page and email your resumé to Sheena Law-Killinger at slawkillinger@detroitlawyer.org. The deadline to register is Friday, January 30, 2026.
February 17, 2026
5:30-8:30 p.m. Lager House, Detroit 1254 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
Come mix and mingle with the Judges and celebrate Mardi Gras at Lager House in Corktown, Detroit! When you join now as a first time member, you are invited to attend this event free of charge. If you are already a member, you will get a drink ticket for signing up a new member! Heavy appetizers and a cash bar are included with your ticket.
For questions, please contact Sheena Law-Killinger at slawkillinger@detroitlawyer.org.
March 5, 2026
12 - 1 p.m. Zoom Platform
Join Mercer Advisors for a timely and insightful webinar designed for legal professionals across Michigan. We’ll unpack the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, a new tax law that brings unchanged rates, shifting brackets, and fresh credits—offering clarity on how these changes may impact your clients and your practice.
We’ll also explore the key macro and market themes shaping the year ahead, including our analysis of economic growth, policy developments, and market dynamics. Whether you're advising clients through financial transitions or simply staying informed, this session will equip you with the knowledge to navigate both legal and economic landscapes with confidence.
Members $15Nonmembers $35
SPONSOR:
March 25, 2026 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Corktown Taphouse, Detroit
Save the date for the Detroit Bar's first Trivia Night, a fundraiser for the new Affordable Legal Assistance Program. For details and to sponsor, contact Sheena Law-Killinger at slawkillinger@detroitlawyer.org.
"Raising the Bar" 190th Annual Dinner
June 11, 2026 Detroit Golf Club 5–8 p.m.
Don’t miss your chance to be a part of Raising the Bar 2026, the Detroit Bar Association's annual meeting—held at the iconic Detroit Golf Club.
Join us for an evening of celebration and recognition, including the installation of Detroit Bar officers and awarding those who have shown exceptional dedication to the outreach and growth of the law, within both the Detroit Bar and community.
To sponsor, contact Darlene Trudell at dtrudell@detroitlawyer.org or 248-408-6919.
Last year's sponsors:
DIAMOND SPONSORS:
EMERALD SPONSORS:
SAPPHIRE SPONSORS:
ANNUAL SPONSORS:
PHOTO BOOTH SPONSOR:
PRINTING SPONSOR:
The Detroit Bar Barristers are pleased to once again present the Outstanding Young Lawyer Awards. These awards will recognize the accomplishments of young attorneys who, despite being in the early stages of their career, have demonstrated great potential as future leaders of the legal community.
Nominees for these awards must have been in practice for 10 years or fewer. Recipients will be announced and honored at Summer Breeze on July 14, 2026, 5:30-8:30 pm, at Supergeil Detroit.
Nominations for the Barristers Awards must be received by Friday, June 19, 2026, and must include the name of the nominee, their firm/organization, years in practice, as well as a brief (not more than one page) statement explaining the basis for the nomination. Supporting documentation may also be attached. Award recipients are required to be active Detroit Bar Association members.
Submit nominations and questions to Patrick Masterson at PMasterson@dickinson-wright.com.
July 14, 2026, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Supergeil Detroit 2442 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216
It’s time for the 37th Annual Barristers' Summer Breeze and Law Clerk Party! This year’s Summer Breeze will be held at Supergeil Detroit, where guests can enjoy networking with members of the judiciary and other legal professionals. Summer Breeze is an ideal opportunity for new attorneys, summer associates and law clerks to meet and mingle with various members of the legal community in a relaxed and informal setting.
The Summer Breeze also provides the perfect opportunity to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of some of our best and brightest young attorneys who have, in the early stages of their career, demonstrated great potential as future leaders of the legal community.
Click here to view the award categories and to nominate an outstanding young Lawyer!
Registration: $45 Detroit Bar Members; $65 for non-members and includes appetizers. There will also be a cash bar available. Free admission for Detroit Bar Law Student Members and Members of the Judiciary. We look forward to seeing you on July 14!
For more information, contact Sheena Law-Killinger at slawkillinger@detroitlawyer.org.
October 5, 2026
The Social Brews Detroit 211 W Fort St #100, Detroit, MI 48201
5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Meet the Judges! The Detroit Bar Association welcomes you to join us at The Social Brews Detroit on October 5th from 5:30-8:30 p.m. for a post-work happy hour. Relax and connect with fellow lawyers and jurists outside of the courtroom; no programs, no briefs, no motions—only friendly debates, drinks and appetizers. Appetizers will be included with a cash bar available.
LOCATION:
The Social Brews Detroit 211 W Fort St #100, Detroit, MI 48226
COST:
$45 Detroit Bar Member $65 Non-Members $25 Students Judges are complimentary